If you’ve been injured in a car accident or as a result of someone else’s actions or inaction, you may be able to file a personal injury claim in order to collect compensation to help offset medical bills and lost wages. The majority of injury cases are settled before they go before a judge, but in some instances neither side can come close to an agreement, so they have a judge provide a ruling.
However, before the case goes before a judge, there is another option that many injured parties consider – mediation. Mediation is seen as a last resort where both parties can come together with the assistance of a trained, impartial third party to help see if a resolution can be released. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at some of the benefits an injured party can find in the mediation process.
The Benefits Of Mediation
Mediation can be a perfect option for an injured party who wants to put an end to their case but still ensure they are getting a fair deal. Here’s a look at some of the benefits offered through the mediation process.
Saves Money – A mediator typically charges by the hour for their services, and oftentimes their cost is split by the two parties. So even though it carries a small bill, it is much less expensive than taking the case to trial.
May Be Closer Than You Think – Even though you are struggling to see eye to eye, the two sides may be closer than you think. However, it may take a neutral third-party who is removed from the case to help you see this.
Really Helps To Understand What’s Important – When you’re working with a neutral party, you can be a little more direct in what you must have in a settlement and where you’ll make concessions. You don’t always want to tip your hand to the other side, but letting the mediator know where you’re flexible helps them work a little give and take with both sides. It also helps ensure you get what’s most important to you in a settlement.
Nothing To Lose – We mentioned that there is a small hourly fee, but outside of that and a little time, you have nothing to lose but a lot to gain by considering mediation. You’ll save a lot of time and money, and you’ll likely get a better deal by working with a mediator than by letting a judge decide your fate.
Dose Of Reality – Mediation can also serve as a dose of reality for one side. Although they are a neutral third-party, these mediators tend to have an extensive background in injury compensation and the process of an injury award. They can help one side see the legitimacy of the other’s claims. A mediator is unlikely to see things much differently than a judge, so if they are questioning your asking price or they believe the insurance company is trying to shortchange you, they can oftentimes be a good gauge to help you comprehend where you stand before trial.
Prevent A Worst Case Scenario – Finally, mediation can help you prevent a worse case scenario in the event that your claim could get outright denied by a judge. Even if it seems like you have a strong case, you can never guarantee how a judge will see it. There is uncertainty that comes with taking a case to court, so both sides can benefit from working through a mediator to come to an agreement that avoids a worst case scenario.
To learn more about the mediation process, or to connect with an injury law firm for assistance with your injury case, reach out to the team at Hey Workers today.
